Commercial Banking Insight Week Review

On a day-to-day basis, I was involved in morning and afternoon check-in sessions that provided a good opportunity to ask any questions I had. We had several networking sessions with both senior NatWest employees and graduates. We even had the chance to engage in two group exercises on how to pitch a business and why diversity and inclusion is important, and how the application process can be made more inclusive.

I have learnt how to deliver an effective one-pitch pitch that entices an audience, and delivers the content in an engaging and concise manner. More importantly, I learnt how to work effectively in a group, and subsequently apply this to future jobs and assessment centres. When working on the pitch, I enhanced my ability to deal with reading information quickly and extracting key details.

The NatWest Team did an incredible job of both highlighting the functions of the overall business, while integrating business-specific networking sessions to provide us with a detailed understanding of the company. Employees delivered a presentation outlining the various business lines, and their respective functions, and how rotations on the graduate scheme allow us to experience all business lines across the firm.

The company culture was amazing. This was most definitely highlighted by how supportive and helpful the NatWest team were during the week, with respect to both technical support, but also being completely open to all sorts of questions. The diversity and inclusion and employee-led network sessions truly reflected the deep level of commitment NatWest has towards its employees and ESG. NatWest allows employees to get involved in sport, volunteering, and sustainability initiatives.

The virtual experience was fantastic. The company culture was the highlight as it really felt like I was truly valued, and everyone was more than willing to help. The virtual experience offered a unique opportunity to network with both my own peers, but ask my questions to graduates and senior employees. The group exercises were really fun, and taught me how to deliver a pitch - possibly one of the most important skills required in a job.

Yes

When applying, while making sure you have a strong CV, the video interview should be seen as an opportunity to truly show your personality. While it is important to have strong academics and work experience, use the interview as a way to showcase your other skills and interests and how you believe these can be best leveraged as an intern at NatWest - really show what makes you unique, as this is what will make you stand out. When working with teams on the programme, include everyone and take everyone's point of view into account. Be prepared to ask questions that you truly want the answer to - not just for the sake of asking a question!